Changes of renal ATPase enzymes in different types of kidney preservation

After 24-hr storage of canine kidneys with extracellular or intracellular (Ursol) solutions, the cortical and medullary renal ATPase enzymes (total Na+ + K+ and Mg-ATPase, Na+ + K+ -ATPase, and Mg-ATPase) were examined. It was found that storage with extracellular solution decreased all cortical enzymes. This was not the case with intracellular solution or in kidneys cooled and stored without any solution. A decrease in the potassium concentration of the Ursol solution decreased cortical (Na+ + K+)-ATPase enzymatic activity. The medullary enzymatic changes were similar in the different groups, and lower than in unstored controls. It appears that the changes on the level of the ATPase enzyme system which is related to the cation transport system might play a significant role in explaining the different results seen in clinical or experimental renal preservation systems. These changes can be related to the injury of preservation due to environmental effects of the cation concentrations and to a lesser degree to the damage of the enzyme system which provides the energy for cation transport.